Love in the time of war

Feng Songguang, Feng Zhongyun's son, holds his father's picture. He recalls stories about his parents. [Photo by He Keyao/chinadaily.com.cn]

Love has its challenges in times of war. For some, it is a luxury that few can own; for others, it is a faith that life depends on.

As the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII has been just celebrated, let's recall the shining warmth of one couple's love amid the turmoil of the times.

Background: Feng Zhongyun (1908-1968) was a well-known general of the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army during WWII. A graduate of Tsinghua University, Feng joined the Communist Party in 1927 and spent most of his life fighting for his country. His wife, Xue Wen (1913-2003), followed in her beloved's footsteps and worked for China’s liberation from the time she was 18 years old. Their touching love story is legendary.

When Xue Wen said goodbye to her beloved husband, Feng Zhongyun, in 1934, she never dreamed that this would be the last word she would say to him for the next 12 years.